Seanad debates
Wednesday, 6 July 2011
Foreshore (Amendment) Bill 2011: Committee and Remaining Stages
1:00 pm
Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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I recognise this is not the ideal way to bring legislation through and, under normal circumstances, more time would be provided and consideration given to this. I acknowledge party spokespersons were offered a full briefing and given copies of the legislation last Monday. However, this is a short, technical Bill that does not require lengthy consideration or amendment and that is why I was anxious to complete deliberations today in order that it can be enacted for the summer.
Brian Ó Domhnaill (Fianna Fail)
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I thank the Minister for clarifying many of the issues raised by Senators. He brought clarity in his Second Stage reply and I thank him for that. I welcome the legislation and the Minister's commitment to ensure there will be scrutiny of those responsible for implementing it, whether they are employed in his own Department or the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government to make sure we speed up the process of dealing with foreshore licences and aquaculture.
I wish the Minister well in his negotiations with the EU regarding aquaculture, which need to be brought to a quick conclusion.
Michael Comiskey (Fine Gael)
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I thank the Minister for bringing clarity to the debate and I look forward to working with him.
Colm Burke (Fine Gael)
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I refer to the issue of timescale, which the Minister mentioned. However, I keep raising this issue in the context of different applications to Departments. The Garda must bring District Court proceedings within a specific time period. There is a need to set down a timeframe for many applications to various Departments where consent is required. Will the Minister examine this?
Susan O'Keeffe (Labour)
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I apologise for my absence earlier. I thank the Minister for attending and for taking note of the issues raised. I look forward to debates with him on this and other matters in the future.